Question: Is there any one doing a lot of IPOP’s?
What is current procedure about drains?
Answers
Some surgeons don’t use them at all…some surgeons swear by them. If the surgeon chooses to use a drain and you are doing a fiberglass bandage application, simply instruct the physician to eave the drain tube long enough to exit above the proximal trimline of the cast. I have also made outlets for the drain to exit distally. Generally the surgeon removes the drain during the first cast change and it is out of the way for good. Good luck. Jim Price, M.Ed., C.P.O.
I usually run the tube inside the sock but I don’t think it makes a huge difference either way. But the drain comes out very easily and without huge incident or excessive bleeding in the cast. We do cast changes at one week anyway so if they want to wait that long (usually not) they can pull the drain then. Good luck. gb
Currently, The best IPOP is the Flotech system for BKs only. The AK version sucks. The Flotech is an off the shelf three stage prepratory system that really works well on controlling flexion contractures and swelling while the limb is healing post-op. The 3rd part of the system is a walking leg that can be used as soon as seven days post-amputation with 20% weight bearing. -Mike Kogan, CP.
Hey Marty, hope all is well. With the IPOPS we are leaving in the drain and casting it in the socket. The surgeon then is able to pull it out the top when ready. Doesn’t seem to be a real problem. Good luck gb
Marty – I personally don’t like the results from the “pre-fabs” (e.g. Aircast, APPOPS) and prefer to do it “old-school” with plaster. Lately have noticed more surgeons are NOT using drains, but if used it is easy to accomodate that line into a plaster IPOP.
Marty Mandelbaum CPO
M. H. Mandelbaum Orthotic & Prosthetic Services, Inc.
116 Oakland Avenue
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
631 473 8668
631 473 8691 fax
www.MHMOandP.com
